I went from playing tourney style ball to an Empire Sniper. A few weeks later I started Stock Class with my VSC Phantom. It was an easier transition from Speedball to the Empire Sniper because they kind of have the same feel. I will say however that I'm enjoying stock class more than anything. You could get a pretty nice phantom set-up used for under 300 bucks.

I'd go with a phantom. They're cheap, amazingly simple and reliable, and they have tons of options as far as customization goes. If you decide you really like pump and want to put some more money into it, you can start looking at CCM, BL, and the various higher end cocker based pumps out there

The best answer is the 3rd reply. Kind of. If you don't already own a Cocker, buy one that has already been converted for the *cheapest* good option. If you aren't sure how you'll like it, buy a Trilogy. You can pick up the low end ones for under $50. Then buy a $20 pump kit. Now you have a pump, but if you don't like it just pop the pneumatics back on and you have a semi.

If you want a sniper, just browse the pump bst. Or you could get a mech/electric cocker and slap a pump kit on it. I would recommend wgp prostock, superstock, outkast, etc. Basically anything in your price range. If you want cheap, I would even recommend a trilogy. They are usually around $100.
As far as pump kits go, they all basically function the same. The ccm kits are usually the nicest/smoothest, but that all depends on how the gun is set up.

Basically, its all your personal preference in what bodies/colors you like and what you are willing to spend.

Went out two weekends ago. Used my vintage Sniper 2. and played in my Idema Vest. By the end of the day, the other team was calling me the "guy in the black vest".... Good to instill fear in the new generation of paintball players... I was using gear that is almost 25 years old playing against people that weren't even born yet.... =)
ps. saved lots of money on paint too....

Ya so im thinking about just saving up a little more and just go with the empire sniper does anyone have much experience with it i know the guy at the top posted about it i just want more thoughts on it